Job Description

Expression Australia Community Advisory Group – Melbourne

Auslan Video Link: https://youtu.be/6IUb1moa5-4

ABOUT EXPRESSION AUSTRALIA

Expression Australia is a not-for-profit organisation created by and for the Deaf community. Since 1884, we have been empowering Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities across Australia by providing essential services such as Auslan interpreting, employment and education support, and community programs that promote inclusion and accessibility.

Our vision is a world where Deaf people have equal opportunities and full access to information, education, and employment.

To learn more about Expression Australia and our services, visit expression.com.au.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Expression Australia is committed to supporting and empowering the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. A key part of this commitment is our Community Advisory Group (CAG), which provides community members with opportunities to directly influence our organisation’s work.

CAG consists of passionate individuals, including Deaf, hard-of-hearing, Deafblind, CODA, POD, and SODA members, who contribute their lived experiences to shape Expression Australia's services, campaigns, and projects.

As a CAG member, you will:

• Advocate for better access, inclusion, and awareness of Deaf and hard-of-hearing experiences.

• Represent Expression Australia positively and engage with the community professionally.
• Provide feedback on Expression Australia’s services and programs.
• Contribute to media campaigns and content to raise awareness.
• Speak at events and share your experiences with the broader community.

This is a voluntary, casual role with a 2-year commitment.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• We are seeking people who:
• Are Deaf, hard of hearing, or have a strong connection to the Deaf community.
• Are passionate about accessibility, inclusion, and advocating for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
• Have experience or knowledge of Expression Australia’s services and the wider Deaf community.
• Are comfortable sharing their lived experiences to inform projects, advocacy, and campaigns.
• Have strategies in place to manage their own wellbeing when discussing personal experiences.
• Possess strong communication skills and can work independently and in a team (via Auslan, spoken English, or written communication).

We strongly encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, multicultural communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

TO BE ELIGIBLE, YOU MUST:

• Be Deaf, hard of hearing, a Parent of Deaf/hard-of-hearing, Deafblind, a Child of a Deaf Adult (CODA), or a Sibling of a Deaf Adult (SODA).
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have experience with Expression Australia or another Deaf support service in the past 12 months or be willing to engage in personal growth opportunities.
• Be available for the full 2-year term of the Community Advisory Group.
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or have the right to live and work in Australia.
• Be willing to complete the NDIS Volunteer Screening check (required for NDIS organisations).
• Hold or be willing to obtain a Working with Children Check (or equivalent).

Expression Australia is a child-safe organisation committed to promoting the rights and safety of young and vulnerable people.

BENEFITS FOR YOU

• Make an impact – Help shape services for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community and their families.
• Develop new skills – Gain experience in public speaking, media, advocacy, and project management.
• Personal growth – Expand your knowledge and skills in accessibility and inclusion.
• Be heard – Participate in campaigns, events, and projects that improve accessibility and inclusion.
• Network – Connect with a national advisory group of Deaf and hard-of-hearing leaders.

HOW TO APPLY

Complete the Expression of Interest Form via this link: https://forms.office.com/r/JCCTk3yAQk.

If you prefer to answer questions in Auslan, please contact us to arrange a meeting.

For more information or any questions, please email Engagement@expression.com.au.